Noisy Oil Separator

[dp996]

1999 C2 Coupe 996 w/Tiptronic - Original Owner - New noise (chirping sound in the engine compartment) just encountered, particularly at idle, that has been diagnosed as a failed oil separator. Any experiences out there that can be shared? Known ramifications if ignored? The service entity states engine removal required and major bucks to repair with a rather minor part. I just discovered this site and any insight or related personal experience is appreciated.

Edited May 25, 2006 by dp996

[ianwallwork]

1999 C2 Coupe 996 w/Tiptronic - Original Owner - New noise (chirping sound in the engine compartment) just encountered, particularly at idle, that has been diagnosed as a failed oil separator. Any experiences out there that can be shared? Known ramifications if ignored? The service entity states engine removal required and major bucks to repair with a rather minor part. I just discovered this site and any insight or related personal experience is appreciated.

The separator can be replaced without the engine being removed. My old 3.4 had this done once (and the oil return bellows - a flexible rubber tube attached to it that returns oil to the sump - replaced several times) by my local specialist. Pain to get at and probably 3-4 hours plus parts but not as bad as an engine out.

Ian W

[dp996]

The separator can be replaced without the engine being removed. My old 3.4 had this done once (and the oil return bellows - a flexible rubber tube attached to it that returns oil to the sump - replaced several times) by my local specialist. Pain to get at and probably 3-4 hours plus parts but not as bad as an engine out.

Ian W

I was beginning to think my post was invisible. Thanks for your input. Now I have to figure a way to get your specialist here, or my car to the UK. Hmmm, wonder which way is going to most cost effective? I'll start by checking for local independent service in my area. Thanks again.

[dp996]

Thought I'd update the inquiry now that I have done more research. As suggested by Ian W, I now have a second confirmation that indeed the oil separator can be replaced w/o removing the engine, although it is not an easy undertaking (especially on a Tiptronic). Nevertheless, it easily saves 10 hrs of labor on the flat rate manual. Thus the alternate repair facility will have at it following the weekend.

Added note: I like and appreciate this site for the variety of topics and the knowledge base it seems to present. I'm certainly glad I tripped across it on this occasion and look forward to learning more, as I contemplate retiring my 996 from daily use and can now consider it more of a toy.

[Lee Quave]

Thought I'd update the inquiry now that I have done more research. As suggested by Ian W, I now have a second confirmation that indeed the oil separator can be replaced w/o removing the engine, although it is not an easy undertaking (especially on a Tiptronic). Nevertheless, it easily saves 10 hrs of labor on the flat rate manual. Thus the alternate repair facility will have at it following the weekend.

Added note: I like and appreciate this site for the variety of topics and the knowledge base it seems to present. I'm certainly glad I tripped across it on this occasion and look forward to learning more, as I contemplate retiring my 996 from daily use and can now consider it more of a toy.

Thanks for the info. I haven’t noticed the one final chirp you mentioned, I’ll have to pay closer attention the tomorrow when I bring the car in for its 60,000 mile service. The information you gathered may come in handy if the dealer suggests the engine pulling route.

Let me know how the repair went on your car and I will do the same.